Background of the Study
Online scams are a growing issue in Nigeria, with the increasing use of the internet and social media platforms contributing to the rise in cybercrime (Ajayi & Abiola, 2024). These scams involve various fraudulent schemes, including phishing, fake investment opportunities, and fraudulent e-commerce transactions, all of which can result in significant financial losses for victims. The Nigerian government and law enforcement agencies, particularly the Lagos State Police Command, have been striving to combat online scams and cybercrime, but the rapidly evolving nature of digital fraud presents significant challenges.
Digital forensic accounting has emerged as a powerful tool in investigating online scams, providing techniques to trace and recover digital assets involved in fraudulent activities (Ibrahim & Alabi, 2023). By analyzing financial transactions, digital footprints, and other electronic evidence, forensic accountants can uncover hidden fraud schemes, track perpetrators, and provide valuable evidence for legal proceedings. This approach is particularly relevant in tackling online scams, where traditional investigative methods often fall short due to the complex, cross-border nature of digital transactions.
This study investigates the role of digital forensic accounting in online scam investigations in Nigeria, with a particular focus on the Lagos State Police Command. By examining how forensic accounting techniques can assist law enforcement agencies in investigating and prosecuting online scams, this research aims to offer insights into how digital forensic accounting can enhance the effectiveness of cybercrime investigations in Nigeria.
Statement of the Problem
Online scams have become a pervasive issue in Nigeria, with many individuals and businesses falling victim to various types of digital fraud. The Lagos State Police Command faces significant challenges in investigating these scams due to the technical nature of the crimes and the lack of specialized skills in digital forensics (Ajayi & Abiola, 2024). Traditional investigative methods are often inadequate in addressing the complexities of online fraud, making it difficult for law enforcement agencies to identify perpetrators and recover stolen assets. Digital forensic accounting has the potential to enhance investigations into online scams, but its application in Nigerian law enforcement is underdeveloped.
This research seeks to explore the role of digital forensic accounting in strengthening online scam investigations in Nigeria, specifically within the Lagos State Police Command. By evaluating how digital forensic techniques can be applied to online scam cases, this study aims to provide recommendations for improving the effectiveness of online scam investigations.
Objectives of the Study
To examine the role of digital forensic accounting in online scam investigations in Lagos State, Nigeria.
To evaluate the effectiveness of digital forensic accounting techniques in identifying and investigating online scams.
To assess the challenges faced by the Lagos State Police Command in implementing digital forensic accounting in online scam investigations.
Research Questions
What role does digital forensic accounting play in online scam investigations in Lagos State, Nigeria?
How effective are digital forensic accounting techniques in identifying and investigating online scams in Lagos State?
What challenges does the Lagos State Police Command face in implementing digital forensic accounting in online scam investigations?
Research Hypotheses
Digital forensic accounting plays a significant role in online scam investigations in Lagos State, Nigeria.
Digital forensic accounting techniques are effective in identifying and investigating online scams in Lagos State.
The Lagos State Police Command faces significant challenges in implementing digital forensic accounting in online scam investigations.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study focuses on the application of digital forensic accounting in investigating online scams, with a case study of the Lagos State Police Command. The scope includes an evaluation of forensic techniques, their effectiveness, and the challenges faced by law enforcement in applying digital forensics to scam investigations. Limitations include potential access issues to case data, the evolving nature of online scams, and the time constraints in assessing the long-term impacts of digital forensic accounting techniques.
Definitions of Terms
Digital Forensic Accounting: The application of forensic accounting techniques to investigate digital financial transactions, typically involving online fraud or cybercrime.
Online Scams: Fraudulent schemes conducted over the internet, including phishing, fake investment opportunities, and identity theft.
Lagos State Police Command: The primary law enforcement agency in Lagos State, responsible for investigating and addressing crimes, including online scams.
Cybercrime: Criminal activities that involve the use of computers, networks, or the internet, including online fraud, hacking, and identity theft.
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